Fethullah Gulen's concept of knowledge in context of the contemporary muslim reformist thought

Abstract

In the face of primordial and contemporary challenges related to the meaning and methodology of knowledge, this study aims to examine the response devised by the contemporary Muslim progressive thought in the specific case of Turkish Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen’s (1938-present) conception of knowledge. It focuses on his conception to reveal its various features with the aim of obtaining a sound and accurate related understanding of his thought and drawing subsequent conclusions. Employing a methodology comprising extensive library and historical research for the collection of necessary information, the study deliberately and heavily relies on the primary sources while also referring to the relevant secondary sources in order to accurately reflect the original facts and ideas as much as possible. As an important part of the study, such qualitative methods as textual and comparative analysis, classification, and translation have been utilized during the subsequent analysis of the collected information. Based on the findings of the study, the conception of knowledge of Gülen builds on the essential, timeless and profound ‘dynamics’ of knowledge inherent in the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Overall, it constitutes a promising prospect for universally valid knowledge basis and framework for individuals and societies alike to cope with various sorts of related challenges and problems. Through its sound, comprehensive, balanced, and yet delicate and lively approach, the conception aims to facilitate the perfection and eternal happiness of people, and forms a considerable alternative basis for true originality in thought and life.